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Current rate: £12.71 per hour
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About National Minimum Wage
National Living Wage vs National Minimum Wage

The National Living Wage (NLW) applies to workers aged 21 and over. The National Minimum Wage (NMW) applies to younger workers and apprentices.

2026/27 Rates (from April 2026)
Category Hourly Rate
21 and over (National Living Wage)£12.71
18 to 20 years old£10.85
Under 18 (above school leaving age)£8.00
Apprentice*£8.00

*Apprentice rate applies if you're under 19, or 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship.

What Counts Towards Minimum Wage?
  • Basic pay
  • Incentive payments and bonuses (in some cases)
  • Tips paid through payroll
What Doesn't Count?
  • Overtime premium (only basic rate counts)
  • Tips given directly by customers
  • Expenses or benefits in kind
  • Pension contributions
Your Rights

All workers are entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage. If you think you're being paid less than the minimum wage, you can:

  • Talk to your employer
  • Contact ACAS for advice (0300 123 1100)
  • Report to HMRC's NMW team
2026/27 Rates
21 and over £12.71
18 to 20 £10.85
Under 18 £8.00
Apprentice £8.00

Rates effective from 1st April 2026

Recent Rate History
Year 21+ Rate Change
2026/27£12.71+4.1%
2025/26£12.21+6.7%
2024/25£11.44+9.8%
2023/24£10.42+9.7%
2022/23£9.50+6.6%